Snakes on a Plane director David R Ellis dies aged 60

Film maker best known for the Samuel L Jackson thriller and Final Destination 2 has passed away while filming in South Africa

Snakes on a Plane director David R Ellis has died aged 60 while in South Africa.

The American director had been in Johannesburg to film a remake of the anime film Kite, which was set to star Samuel L Jackson.

David R Ellis started his career as a child star before appearing as a stunt man in films such as Fatal Attraction, The Addams Family and Hotel for Dogs. In more recent years he made his name as a director, working on films such as Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, The Perfect Storm, Final Destination 2 and Shark Night 3D.

Actors who have worked with the director, including Snakes on a Plane's leading man Samuel L. Jackson, have begun to pay tribute to him on Twitter.

So sad to hear of David R Ellis passing! So talented, so kind, such a Good Friend. He'll be missed. Gone too soon!